His decision to turn down the opportunity is a huge boost for Sligo and the focus will now return to Sunday week's Ford FAI Cup final with Shelbourne.

Cook's move could also open the door for Fenlon, who was on the original shortlist and has greatly impressed the authorities at the Perth-based outfit.

The Bohemians manager has performed well at Dalymount Park this year amid extremely difficult working conditions.

He was set for a move to Scotland at the beginning of last year only for a switch to Dundee United to break down over the Gypsies' compensation demands.

The situation is drastically different now, with the Phibsboro club facing a huge battle over the winter to stay afloat with long-standing financial issues coming to a head.

Fenlon remains under contract and, ironically, his departure would suit the club as it would lessen the wage bill considerably.

St Johnstone are expected to move things along this week, although Brown has stated that he is no rush to make a quick appointment.

A statement from the club yesterday said: "The club's search for a replacement manager continues, but it does not appear that the successor to Derek McInnes will be Paul Cook.

"The current manager of Sligo Rovers has been in highly publicised talks with St Johnstone about the vacant post, but the two parties have been unable to reach agreement on personal terms and the club therefore moves on to other options."

Fenlon will face strong competition for the post, with Mark McGhee throwing his hat into the ring yesterday and a number of other Scottish managers interested.